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Date: September 12, 2002
To:
The Joint Lead Agency for the Bethel Performing Art Center
From:
The Woodstock Preservation Alliance
Re: Submission of Petitions in Support of NOT developing the 37.5 acres Original Woodstock Site
To all concerned,
We, the Woodstock Preservation Alliance, would like to
thank you for allowing comment on the final EIS. As part of this democratic
process, we are submitting for your examination and consideration, our petition
document pertaining to the proposed development of the 37.5-acre parcel of land
known as the Original 1969 Woodstock Festival site. As has been stated numerous
times during this process, the WPA is in complete support of a Performing Art
District, which will bring the arts and needed economic stimulation to Bethel
and Sullivan County. Given the 1400 acres available and the historic nature of
the Woodstock site, to develop the top one third of the site and surround the
grounds with a security fence, will do more to degrade the very landmark that
will set this PAC apart form its competitors, than enhance its appeal.
The signatures on the submitted petitions represent only a
portion of those who support the WPA’s position. As is well known, not all who
support a cause, necessarily are comfortable with making their support public.
The many that we have had contact with and who oppose development of the site
will make their dismay known through their lack of patronage to this new
venture. It should also be pointed out that in your review of the petition, not
all information might be available for a given supporter. Although an individual
may not have followed protocol in participating in the petition, to dismiss
these signatures and reduce the overall submitted count would be a mistake.
Regardless of complete information, these are people with voices. By taking time
to sign the petition they are wishing to have their concerns accounted for. We
see ALL of the signatures as valid expressions of concern over the proposed
violation of this historic landmark to music, peace, and modern world history.
We, the Woodstock Preservation Alliance extend to the Joint
Lead Agency our deepest respect for the very difficult decisions that need to be
made regarding this venture. We cannot say enough, that the 37.5 acre Woodstock
Site is a precious icon that needs to have its natural beauty and meaning
protected. It belongs in spirit to the World, and your decision will determine
how Bethel is remembered by future generations.
Wishing the Joint Lead Agency wisdom and clarity,
The Board of Directors and Members of the Woodstock
Preservation Alliance
_____________________________________________________
Signature and title (with expressed permission of the WPA
Board)
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